3 Online Political Campaigning Facts and Myths

In the world of online campaigning, it can be tempting and dangerous to make assumptions. When it comes to digital strategies, it’s easy to make decisions based on outdated information. So, let’s bust a few myths that many candidates have when starting an online political campaign.

Myth: A Facebook page can replace a campaign website

Fact: While most political campaigns have a Facebook page, it should not take the place of a dedicated campaign website. Facebook certainly has an enormous audience and offers a variety of tools for engaging with supporters.

But it also has limitations.

Facebook is a closed network, meaning content visibility relies on users being members of the platform. This exclusivity can restrict your reach, as not everyone is a Facebook user. Additionally, the platform’s terms and conditions can be stringent, leading to potential content removal and suspension risks.

On top of that, Facebook’s algorithm limits the organic reach of your posts to just a fraction of your followers. (Maybe 5% if you’re lucky.) To ensure your message reaches your audience, you will need to invest in advertising or boosting posts, which has its own costs.

The best approach is to treat social media platforms as valuable tools for engagement. It’s your campaign website where you have complete control over your content and messaging.

There’s a saying, “Don’t build your home on someone else’s land.” Remember that your social media content only exists at the pleasure of the social media platforms. That can change anytime.

Myth: The internet will pull in donations effortlessly

Fact: While the internet has opened up new fundraising opportunities, simply having a website or donation buttons is not a guarantee that anyone will contribute. Online fundraising requires careful planning, strategic coordination, and active engagement with potential donors.

To maximize your online fundraising efforts, integrate your digital presence with offline events and outreach. Let them know how they can help and persuade them to give.

Remember that all fundraising success is a result of consistent effort, creativity, and the ability to showcase the impact donor’s contributions.

Myth: Candidates can wait until the last minute to start online campaigning

Fact: Early online campaigning is essential to building a strong and engaged online community. Candidates who wait until a month before the election to start an online presence are missing the boat. While getting online is not difficult, building a level of online exposure takes time. If you are on a tight budget, it makes sense to start raising seed money as early as possible. One of the best ways to do this is through online fundraising.

Creating a positive and accurate online presence takes time and effort. Start by refining your existing digital footprint and establishing a presence on major social media platforms. Build a following of friends and supporters, and nurture these relationships over time.

By having an established digital presence, you can leverage your network when officially announcing your candidacy. By having an early number of online supporters, you can leverage that existing network to gain more immediate exposure.

Additional Online Myths:

Myth: Social media is the only online advertising you need

Fact: Email marketing, a campaign website, and other online advertising channels should complement social media advertising. Diversifying your digital strategy increases your audience reach. And, of course, you’ll still need traditional advertising methods like direct mail and canvassing.

Myth: Online campaigning is only for young voters

Fact: Like your constituency, online audiences encompass people of all ages and backgrounds. Tailor your message to resonate with various demographics. And be prepared to engage with supporters from all walks of life.

Online campaigning can make a big difference in your election, but you need a strategy to harness the full potential of the digital landscape.

For less than the cost of a mailing, you can have a complete campaign website. Online Candidate website packages contain an easy-to-use campaign website builder, built-in pages and forms, and free access to exclusive resources, including our suite of political AI tools.